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Difference Between NPS vs Mutual Funds

Choosing the right investment option is extremely necessary to build wealth in the long run. While NPS and mutual funds have their specific advantages, they differ in certain terms. NPS takes care of retirement planning using regulated contributions and tax benefits.
In contrast, mutual funds allow for flexibility and various investment options. Read this article to learn more about the difference between NPS and mutual funds, which helps investors select products that meet their financial aspirations.
Table of Contents
What is the National Pension Scheme (NPS)?
NPS is a market-linked defined contribution scheme that enables you to accumulate retirement wealth. The system is uncomplicated, people-composed, transferable, and easily adaptable. It is one of the most effective methods of increasing your pension pay while avoiding taxes.
The Central Government introduced NPS for people with income through a pension required for their retirement. India's Pension and Fund Regulatory Development Authority (PFRDA) oversees and operates the NPS under the PFRDA Act 2013.
What are Mutual Funds?
Mutual funds are a collective form of investment that gathers funds from many investors whose portfolios may consist of a mix of common stocks, bonds, or other securities. They allow individuals to invest their money in diversified assets. Professional fund managers are given responsibility for managing these funds.
Mutual funds' net value changes based on the value of the underlying securities. They allow for diversification, professional management, and liquidity. They are beneficial for investors who seek growth potential. Still, people willing to embrace some risk can opt for this.
What is the Difference Between NPS and Mutual Funds?
Knowing the difference between the NPS and mutual funds enables one to opt for the best option, which gives a higher return on investment. To make you clear in your decision, here is a table representing the differences of each fund:
Advantages of Investing in Mutual Funds and NPS
Mutual Funds and NPS are investment tools designed to assist people in increasing value and saving for future needs. Below are the key advantages of both that will make you clear about both the investment tools:
Tax Implications on NPS and SIP in Mutual Funds
There are often essential tax considerations for investors and companies, but few may be as critical as when it comes to retirement. While they accrue tax benefits, both NPS and SIP, offered in mutual funds, have vastly different structural setups; they also witness distinct sets of benefits and rules of applicability.
Mutual Fund vs NPS: Which is Better?
While comparing NPS and mutual funds, you can position yourself on the scale of many opportunities to make the right money investment.
- Mutual funds suit investors looking for higher returns and who can also accept risk. In contrast, NPS suits conservative investors seeking stable growth for long terms with less risk, especially in their retirement.
- Mutual funds generally offer higher returns but at a higher volatility and risk. On the other hand, NPS gives a stable growth option with lower risk, thus making it a better choice for proper long-term retirement planning.
- The right choice depends upon your unique financial needs, risk profile, and investment horizon. For long-term retirement goals, NPS would be a safer option; mutual funds will suit those looking for higher returns with more risk.
Strategies to Choose Between NPS and Mutual Funds
Choosing between the National Pension System (NPS) and mutual funds depends on your financial goals, risk tolerance, and investment horizon. Here's a detailed breakdown of strategies under both options:
In conclusion, both are absolute investment options. Thus, the decision on which to take between the two depends on various parameters, such as the financial objectives one has set and the time horizon available for investments. Achieving the best of both worlds regarding investment with a balanced portfolio is possible.
Disclaimer: The information provided on this website is for general informational purposes only and should not be construed as financial, investment, or legal advice. While we strive to provide accurate and up-to-date content, we do not guarantee the completeness, reliability, or suitability of the information for your specific needs.
We do not promote or endorse any financial product or service mentioned in these articles. Readers are advised to conduct their own research, consult with financial experts, and make informed decisions based on their unique financial circumstances. Any reliance you place on the information provided here is strictly at your own risk.
FAQs about NPS vs Mutual Funds
Why was NPS introduced, and what is the primary purpose of investing in mutual funds?
How does the taxation policy of NPS vary from mutual funds?
How long does locking in the NPS and mutual funds take?
Which is riskier: NPS or mutual funds?
Is the return obtained with NPS certain?
Is there a provision for withdrawing money in NPS and mutual funds at any point?
What is the tax implication on returns from NPS and mutual funds?
What minimum amount is needed to invest in NPS and mutual funds?
Is it possible to have NPS and mutual funds for retirement?
Can funds in NPS be transferred across categories?
Are NPS investments deductible under Section 80C of the Income Tax Act, 1961?
Who regulates the NPS and mutual funds?
Are mutual funds and NPS the same?
Which is better, NPS or mutual funds?
What happens to NPS after death?
Is NPS Tier 2 better than mutual funds?
How many mutual funds and NPS investments can an investor make?
What is the main difference between NPS and mutual funds?
What are the advantages of NPS over mutual funds?
Other Important Articles about Mutual Funds
Disclaimer
- This is an informative article provided on 'as is' basis for awareness purpose only and not intended as a professional advice. The content of the article is derived from various open sources across the Internet. Digit Life Insurance is not promoting or recommending any aspect in the article or its correctness. Please verify the information and your requirement before taking any decisions.
- All the figures reflected in the article are for illustrative purposes. The premium for Coverage that one buys depends on various factors including customer requirements, eligibility, age, demography, insurance provider, product, coverage amount, term and other factors
- Tax Benefits, if applicable depend on the Tax Regime opted by the individual and the applicable tax provision. Please consult your Tax consultant before making any decision.
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